Teen Volunteers

Find the Career for You

Are you a teen wanting to learn more about zoo or garden related careers while gaining life skills and hands-on experience for your résumé? Our Junior Curator Teen Volunteers are a specially selected group of students who assist our Zoo staff with their daily routines to gain a better understanding of careers and conservation.

The 2020-2021 Junior Curator application period has passed. The 2021-2022 applications will be available in April 2021.

Opportunities

Our Junior Curator Teen Volunteers have an opportunity to work side-by-side with Zoo staff to explore a variety of careers within a zoo and botanical garden setting. Our Junior Curators (JCs) have an opportunity to assist Zoo staff with animal and plant care and assisting our Zoo guests at special events.

Commitment

Complete orientation and training.

Commit to 110 hours of service in specific areas between Oct - Aug.

Attend at least 5 monthly meetings.

Requirements

Must be 14-17 years old. (The deadline for the age range is August 1.)

Applicants must complete an application form and be approved through an interview process.

Pass a drug screening.

Purchase a uniform shirt for $15.

Provide proof of a negative TB test.

Ability to independently understand and follow directions.

Strong sensory skills, including eyesight and hearing.

Ability to work independently and as a team.

Good oral communication skills.

Ability to walk, stand, and sit for up to four hour increments at a time.

Ability to bend, stoop, and kneel.

Ability to independently push, lift, and carry objects weighing more than 10lbs.

Hand dexterity to use kitchen knives and small tools.

Ability to tolerate extreme weather conditions.

Ability to maintain a calm manner around animals.

May be exposed to potential allergens, loud noise conditions, and strong odors.